Nicholas J. Smith

Smith, Nicholas J.,85, of Richland. Died April 7, 2021, at home. Born Sept. 8, 1935, in Johnstown. Son of the late John and Frances (Matula) Smith. Survived by wife of 63 years, Mercedes M. (Stager) Smith; children, Diann (Bob) Smith, Nicholas (Sue) Smith, Eugene (Pam) Smith, Cathy (Brian) Hillberry and Pamela (Troy) Keeley; grandchildren, Keith, Justin and Jeremy Hillberry; Jennifer and Robby Smith; Scott Smith and Jenae Ewaleifoh; Josh and Hannah Keeley; great grandchildren, Oscar and Millie Hillberry; Holden and Leo Hillberry; Nora Keeley, Omonodaghe Ewaleifoh. Brother of Frank, Bernard and Daniel Smith, Veronica Deet and Christine Krope; also survived by numerous nieces and nephews. Graduate of Richland High School class of 1953. Retired from Westinghouse Electric Corp. Member of St. Benedict Catholic Church, Geistown, where he was an Extraordinary Minister. Also involved in Cursillo and ministered to inmates at Huntingdon SCI and Loretto FCI correctional institutions. Nick made rosaries and shared them with inmates and many friends. Nicholas was a gentle man who led a humble life-one surrounded by family, rooted in hard work and guided by his steadfast relationship with the Lord, his Heavenly Father. Though a quiet man, his smile spoke more than words ever could. While his body is no longer with us on this earth, Nicholas’s presence lives on in the lives of those he touched. He will be missed, but undoubtedly never forgotten. Friends received 4 to 8 pm Friday at Harris Funeral Home, 500 Cherry Lane, Richland, where Vigil Service will be held. Funeral Mass will be held at 10 am Saturday at St. Benedict Church. Fr. David S. Peles, Pastor. Committal at St. Joseph Cemetery Mausoleum. (Online condolences may be posted to www.wharrisfuneralhome.com)